Chinese Regime Continues Provocations Against the Philippines, Triggering Reactions From the US and Japan

Philippine vessels were hit by China Coast Guard vessels with high-pressure water cannons; another supply vessel was rammed.

A Chinese Coast Guard ship uses water cannons on Philippine navy-operated supply boat M/L Kalayaan as it approaches Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, in the disputed South China Sea on Dec. 10, 2023. Philippine Coast Guard via AP

In December, Chinese Coast Guard vessels have been provoking Philippine Navy and Coast Guard vessels at a shoal near the Philippines that China claims as its own.

The United States and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to support Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, in maritime defense against China.